Is Your Home Too Airtight? Why Modern Homes Need Proper Ventilation
As energy efficiency improves across Ireland, new homes are being built to be highly airtight. While this helps reduce heat loss and energy bills, it can also trap moisture, carbon dioxide, and indoor pollutants. Without the right ventilation system, an airtight home can quickly become unhealthy and uncomfortable.
🌬️ Why Airtight Homes Need Mechanical Ventilation
Older Irish homes naturally leaked air through gaps and cracks, allowing fresh air to enter and moisture to escape. In contrast, modern airtight homes seal in everything — including humidity and airborne contaminants. Without a ventilation solution, you may experience:
High indoor humidity and condensation
CO₂ build-up, leading to headaches and fatigue
Mould growth in damp corners or bathrooms
Stale air and indoor allergens
Airtight construction improves efficiency — but only if balanced with continuous, controlled ventilation.
💡 The MVHR Solution for Airtight Homes
Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) offers the perfect solution for airtight living. MVHR systems:
Provide a constant supply of fresh, filtered air throughout your home
Extract stale, humid air from wet rooms like bathrooms and kitchens
Recover up to 90% of the heat from outgoing air, reducing energy waste
MVHR systems are now a key requirement in NZEB-compliant and Passive House projects under Irish Building Regulations (TGD F 2019 and TGD L 2023).
🚧 Signs Your Home May Be Too Airtight
If your home feels stuffy or damp, it could be too airtight. Look out for these warning signs:
Condensation forming on windows
Mould growth in bathrooms or corners
Heavy or stale indoor air, even with heating off
Fatigue or headaches that ease outdoors
If you notice these issues, it’s time to assess your home’s ventilation system.
✅ Final Advice: Build Airtight, Ventilate Right
Building an airtight home is a smart energy-saving choice — but proper ventilation is essential for comfort, health, and compliance. Whether you’re retrofitting or starting a new build, include an MVHR system from the start to ensure a healthy, energy-efficient indoor environment.
For expert guidance on MVHR design and installation in Ireland, visit Eco Vent — specialists in airtight home ventilation systems.
